AI in Agritech

Pioneering AI-Driven Aquaponic Solutions for Rwanda’s Agriculture

NjordFrey are working hard to be a leader in the agri-tech sector. Our solution combines innovation and sustainability to transform smallholder farming. Recently recognised as the runner-up in the ‘Innovate Africa Challenge (AI for Climate Action), NjordFrey’s aquaponic solutions demonstrate how artificial intelligence (AI) can drastically enhance agriculture's effectiveness while addressing climate challenges. The challenge was won by Strathmore University, a group of senior researchers who specialise in and are dedicated to AI specifically. Read more about the challenge here https://smartafrica.org/innovate-africa-challenge/

NjordFrey's aquaponic systems merge fish farming and vegetable cultivation into circular, water-efficient processes.

“NjordFrey is developing an AI-enabled monitoring system to enhance our agri-tech solutions further. This technology aims to provide real-time insights and greater efficiency, enabling farmers to make informed decisions and optimise yields sustainably,” NjordFrey’s Team Lead, Florence Uwinema said.

“The underlying digital monitoring system, made up of an array of non-invasive sensors, continuously tracks critical metrics such as water quality, plant health, and nutrient levels, ensuring we have a good understanding of fish and crop health at all times,” she added.

With the added AI functionality being integrated into this system, NjordFrey can analyse and optimise production faster and more accurately to further reduce crop loss, improve fish and plant health, and ultimately boost yields, addressing food security challenges head-on.

The Innovate Africa Challenge, which focused on AI for Climate Action, aimed at promoting innovative uses of AI to tackle climate change impacts and support climate adaptation across the continent. By recognising NjordFrey, the challenge highlights the transformative potential of local AI innovations in agriculture.

“The expected outcome is an increase in AI-driven climate action solutions and the development of pilot projects that demonstrate AI’s transformative potential in Smart Africa Member States,” the challenge convenor published on their website.

The Innovate Africa Challenge is a collaborative initiative between Smart Africa and FAIR Forward. It aims to harness AI to combat climate change across the continent and encourage African startups to develop innovative AI-driven solutions to various climate-related issues.

This recognition places NjordFrey at the forefront of Africa’s push towards integrating technology in climate-smart farming, reinforcing its position as a leader in sustainable agriculture.

In Rwanda, where over 70% of the population depends on agriculture for their livelihood, water efficiency and food security are critical. NjordFrey’s aquaponic systems address these challenges by using approximately 95% less water than conventional farming methods. The NjordFrey aquaponic solution is also scalable, enabling rural communities to establish local food hubs that bolster food security.

Rwanda is incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) into national policies to boost agriculture, recognising its importance for food security and economic growth. The National Artificial Intelligence Policy enhances precision farming, optimises resource use, and improves crop yields through AI tools that analyse soil health, predict weather, and manage pests. This focus on digital agriculture supports the Vision 2050 objectives, promoting sustainability and empowering smallholder farmers with advanced technology.

NjordFrey’s standard 1-ha farm model collectively produces an impressive 24 tons of fish and 100–150 tons of vegetables annually. With the addition of AI functionality to our digital monitoring system, these numbers are set to grow, ensuring even greater resilience for smallholder farmers.

Looking ahead, NjordFrey envisions a food-secure Rwanda as a model for innovative and sustainable agriculture across Africa. By equipping farmers with AI-driven tools and expanding access to aquaponics, NjordFrey supports more excellent technology distribution and empowers communities to thrive in challenging agricultural environments. Though the IAC programme is finished, NjordFrey has hired a resource to continue developing the front-end dashboard and will use data from the farm to test our AI model.

Through its work, NjordFrey is reshaping Rwanda’s farming landscape and proving that technology and tradition can coexist to create lasting solutions for global challenges. As it continues its mission, the enterprise exemplifies the role of AI in building climate-resilient agriculture and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.

Editors Note:
NjordFrey has a collection of training data from its farm that is available for stakeholders interested in collaborating on AI-related topics. AI companies and other stakeholders keen on AI in agriculture can contact NjordFrey here.